Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Iowa
Avg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Iowa
Mollisols and Silty Clay Loams
Montgomery County is defined by its silty clay loam texture and the highly fertile Mollisol order. The average pH is 6.26, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.43. This acidity is common in areas with high historical rainfall and deep prairie roots.
High Silt Content and Clay Balance
The soil contains 56.1% silt and 28.4% clay, with a relatively low sand content of 15.5%. This composition creates a dense soil that is excellent at holding nutrients but can be slow to warm up in the spring. It provides a stable environment for large-scale row cropping.
Exceptional Water Storage Capacity
The available water capacity of 0.207 in/in is significantly higher than the state average of 0.195 in/in. While the organic matter of 3.33% is slightly below the state average of 3.81%, it remains very healthy compared to national figures. This soil is a champion at sustaining plants through dry Midwestern summers.
Well Drained Land with Group C Hydrology
Classified as well drained, these soils move water effectively through the top layers despite being in hydrologic group C. Group C suggests a slower infiltration rate deeper down, which can lead to runoff on sloped land. For homeowners, this means good garden drainage but a need for erosion control on hills.
Thriving in the Zone 5b Climate
Montgomery County's Zone 5b climate and high water capacity are perfect for thirsty crops like tomatoes and peppers. Perennial flowers and shrubs also thrive in the stable silty clay loam. Your garden will benefit from this soil's natural ability to store moisture for the long haul.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 56% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Montgomery County?
Montgomery County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Montgomery County?
Montgomery County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Montgomery County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Iowa
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.